Blue Jackets Face Tough Season Opener Against Hurricanes: October 12 Betting Guide
The Columbus Blue Jackets face off against the Carolina Hurricanes in their season opener at 7:00 p.m. tonight. Here's what you need to know:
Team Updates:
Blue Jackets (4-2-2 preseason):
- Johnny Gaudreau joins as major free agent acquisition
- Elvis Merzlikins out due to illness (27-23-7, 3.22 GAA last season)
- Injured: Joona Luoto, Joonas Korpisalo (IR)
- Recently cleared: Gustav Nyquist, Erik Gudbranson
Hurricanes (4-1 preseason):
- Added Brent Burns to strengthen defense
- Frederik Andersen expected to start (35-14-3, 2.17 GAA last season)
- Injured: Max Pacioretty, Ryan Suzuki, Cavan Fitzgerald (IR), Jake Gardiner (LTIR)
Betting Odds:
- Hurricanes: -173 (favorites)
- Blue Jackets: +360 (underdogs)
- Puck line: 1.5
- Blue Jackets +1.5: -110
- Hurricanes -1.5: -109
Analysis: Carolina enters as strong favorites given their deeper roster and playoff aspirations. However, expect a close game - the Blue Jackets +1.5 (-110) offers good value as this matchup likely ends as a one-goal game.
Recent History: Hurricanes dominated Blue Jackets 8-1 in preseason matchup on October 3rd, though Columbus fielded a limited roster.
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